Recently, my children's student care centre was sold to another provider.

We were given two weeks' notice of the change, and were verbally informed that the meals served would now be vegetarian.

The Ministry of Social and Family Development's (MSF) guidelines on student care centres note that "attractive and appealing food served can stimulate students' appetite and interest to try the different types of food". The centres "should respect the dietary requirements of different religious groups and individual student's food allergy".

My children's student care centre used to provide two choices for meals. Is it acceptable to enforce just one option now?

When we signed up for the student care service, the terms and conditions stated that we had to give a month's notice if we wanted to withdraw.

Can the centre provide only two weeks' notice of a change in provider?

Given Singaporeans' heavy reliance on student care, as it is common for both parents to be working, I hope the MSF will review the guidelines to provide greater clarity. Perhaps the regulation of such a lucrative business is required, as these after-school care services are catering to children typically aged between seven and 12.

Julia Yeo (Ms)